What to do in Quimper: activity guide
Arts, history and traditions at the heart of Cornouaille
A true Breton blend of freshwater from the Odet river and saltwater from the Atlantic Ocean, Quimper means “confluence” in Breton to highlight its diversity. Its embroidery, its nature, its earthenware, its gastronomy and its museums are just some of the things that make up the richness of this emblematic town in the South Finistère department.
Just 45 minutes from Camping Le Kergariou, take a day out to enjoy and discover the historic center of Kemper with its charming old stones.
For the lucky ones, discover the many festivals and cultural events organized in the Cornouaille region, such as the Cornouaille Festival in July.
What to do in Quimper
There’s no shortage of things to do when you visit Quimper. First of all, there’s a wide choice of museums to suit all tastes.
Musée des Beaux-Arts
The Musée des Beaux-Arts is located in the heart of Quimper, in a magnificent Italian-style palace. Inside, you’ll discover a superb collection of works from the North, France and Italy. And of course, the emblematic Pont-Aven school has its place here, highlighting the Breton inspiration of the painters.
Musée de la Faïence
Quimper is associated with the world of earthenware, and has a long tradition of excellence in this field. The Musée de la Faïence provides an opportunity to discover this art form through the centuries and to understand the techniques used. The collection is remarkable, with themes and chronologies highlighted.
Musée Départemental Breton
Located in the former bishops’ palace, the Musée Départemental Breton is the emblem of the Breton region, with all its distinctive features. Archaeology, traditions, costumes, furniture and ceramics are all on display to showcase Breton historical know-how.
Musée de l’Alambic
Inaugurated in 1995, the Musée de l’Alambic is located in the Manoir du Kinkiz, the former château of Guillaume du Plessis. Here, you can discover the art of distillation and all its variants. Indeed, in the Breton past, all farms made their own cider and distilled some of it.
Of course, you can also decide to simply stroll through the shopping streets of the historic town center. You can also take a boat trip to enjoy the iodized air and discover landscapes seen from afar. Last but not least, Quimper is a dynamic city with no shortage of leisure and festive activities, including festivals, shows, escape games and cinema.
- How to get to the Cathedral
- Visit the gardens
- Discover downtown
- Shopping
- Leisure activities: escape game, cinema, bowling
- Festive activities: festivals, shows, theater
What to see in Quimper
Saint-Corentin Cathedral
Quimper Cathedral was first planned in 1239. Today, it’s a landmark and a must-see in Finistère. Cathédrale Saint-Corentin’s charm lies in its famous slender spires, worthy of superb Gothic architecture.
The interior has nothing to be ashamed of, with its decoration and incredible stained glass windows, true masterpieces that were destroyed during the French Revolution.
Old Quimper
The first thing to contemplate on arriving in Quimper’s historic town center is the chain of bridges along the Odet River, alongside the remains of the fortifications and ramparts. In the narrow streets, the timber-framed houses will charm you with their grandeur and charisma.
Between the timber-framed houses and Saint-Corentin Cathedral, you’ll pass along Rue Kéréon, Quimper’s most popular shopping street.
The Odet Valley
The birthplace of the river that bears its name, the Odet Valley is an exceptional site in the Black Mountains.
Kilometers of footpaths and cycle paths await you in the heart of nature, between the forest and the more seaside areas. Ideal for unwinding or simply spending some time, it’s also the perfect place to try your hand at kayaking.
You can also discover :
- The Retraite garden
- The Canal de l’Odet promenade
- Les Halles de Quimper
Kernault manor house
This 15th-century manor house has survived the centuries to become a historic monument in 1991. Owned by the Département du Finistère, it is now an exhibition space.
With its 32-hectare park, it’s also the perfect place for a family outing after enjoying the exhibition.
The Manoir de Kernault offers a wide range of cultural events throughout the year.
What to see around Quimper
The choice is yours: in the vicinity of Quimper, you’ll find numerous seaside resorts to delight holidaymakers. Brittany also boasts a number of typical and charming communes, taking you back into the historical past of this beautiful region. And don’t forget the many islands in the Bigouden region, a real regional treasure.
Le Guilvinec: France’s leading artisanal fishing port, ideal for watching the return of the fishing boats and tasting fresh seafood.
Locronan: one of France’s most beautiful villages, with its well-preserved architecture, cobbled streets and historic charm.
La Pointe du Raz: a spectacular natural site, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and wild cliffs.
Pont-Aven: known as the city of painters, thanks to Paul Gauguin and the Ecole de Pont-Aven, this charming village is also famous for its windmills and galettes.
Concarneau: a fortified town surrounded by the sea, with its Ville Close full of stores and restaurants, as well as beautiful beaches.
Île de Sein: accessible by boat, this small island offers a peaceful setting, far from the hustle and bustle, with a rich natural and cultural heritage.
The Black Mountains: for hiking enthusiasts, this mountain range offers numerous trails with exceptional panoramic views.
La Forêt de Huelgoat: famous for its gigantic rocks and Celtic legends, this mysterious forest is a magical place for walks.
A typical day in Quimper
On this beautiful new day in Brittany, let’s head west.
Just 45 minutes from Camping Le Kergariou, we recommend you start by visiting the historic city center of Quimper, a city of art and history.
This will be an opportunity to discover half-timbered houses, those with old stones and vestiges of fortifications.
After this morning stroll, it’s time for lunch. We recommend Bistrot de Louis for its varied cuisine and family atmosphere. For galettes and crêpes, we recommend the Ty Loulic crêperie, an emblematic address that’s a treat for the taste buds.
It’s up to you to choose which of the many museums appeals to you most.
We recommend the Musée Départemental Breton to learn more about this region on your vacation.
Once the tour is over, head for Concarneau to get closer to Camping Le Kergariou.
You’ll be won over by this Close town, an emblematic symbol of the Breton coastline.
Back at the campsite, it’s time to stop by the snack bar to order your evening meal. Don’t hesitate to ask the staff for their menu!
Then it’s off to the pool for a fitting end to this vacation.
When you stop by the snack bar to pick up your order, it’s time to take a look at the entertainment program to plan your next day.
